Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to get undressed?
This is entirely up to you. Full-sheet draping is used, so your modesty is always protected. Only the body part being worked on is uncovered, so you can get full-body work & still feel totally comfortable. Undressing completely allows you to get the most
from your session. Gluteal muscles for instance, (rear end) can harbor a lot of trigger points and be a major cause for back pain. If you're uncomfortable being undressed completely, just undress to your level of comfort... you may not get as much out of your session, but it's important for you to be comfortable, and a fair amount of work can still be done with you dressed... completely if you want.
Do I have to have a full−body session?
No, but full body sessions are often the best way to go. Many times when you're experiencing pain in one area, it's actually coming from tension in another part of your body. Also, because our brains tend to focus on whatever hurts the most, often we have pain & tension in areas we're not even aware of. However, if you're not comfortable having certain areas worked, just let me know. Your comfort is very important and I won't work anything you're not comfortable with me working. In addition, based on your session goals, we may decide that focus work on only a few areas is more appropriate.
What body parts are included in a “full body” session?
A full body session may include face, scalp, neck, pecs (chest), abdominals (tummy), arms, hands, legs, feet, gluts (rear end), & of course your back. Often what you have worked on depends largely on the length of the session. Breasts & genitals are NOT part of a full body session. All bodywork is entirely non-sexual in nature. Any inappropriate behavior will not be tolerated, and will result in immediate termination of the session.
Does it hurt?
I run into people all the time who are afraid to try bodywork again because they were traumatized by a painful experience. It does not have to be painful. I strongly encourage communication, and will periodically check in with you during your session to
ensure that you are comfortable with the level of pressure. Deep tissue is an option, but it's not for everyone. Additionally, the use of heated stones and essential oils helps me do deeper work with increased comfort.
How early should I show up for my appointment?
Generally, showing up about 5 minutes before your appointment time is ideal. The one exception to this is your first time here... then I ask you to show up about 10 minutes early, so you can begin to fill out some paperwork. If you show up after the appointment time, please know that your session will still end on time, so you're only cutting yourself short. Please remember, if you need to cancel your appointment, 24 hours notice is required or you'll be charged in full for the session. Obviously, emergency circumstances would be taken into account, but I ask that you show respect for my time, your time here, and other clients by showing up on time for your scheduled appointments.
What if I’m sick?
Somatic massage therapy definitely helps the body detoxify. However, if you're already sick, the body is already working extra hard to detoxify, so it’s usually not a good idea when you’re sick. Sometimes getting bodywork when you’re sick can actually make you feel much worse. It’s generally best to stay home in bed, drink lots of fluids and let your body rest and recover.
Massage therapy is a GREAT choice for helping you stay well… it's detoxifying effects can be used as maintenance to improve the functioning of your immune system, to help you not get sick in the first place. If you have specific questions about whether massage is a good option at the time, please call... there may be essential oils or techniques that could help. One technique that some clients have found to be great for health maintenance and immune boosting is the Raindrop Technique. Again, if you think you may not be able to make your scheduled session because of illness, please call me as soon as possible.
Am I expected to tip?
Many places expect, and often even request that you tip your therapist. As a business owner I don't want my clients to feel that they have to tip. Tips are always very appreciated, but not expected. I would rather have you come regularly and never tip, than only come once in awhile because you feel obligated to tip.
Can I talk during the session, or am I supposed to be quiet?
This is really up to you. You may find you get more out of your session if you get quiet, relax, let your mind go, and focus on the experience. The problem with talking is you may end up rehashing all your problems, and instead of feeling better, end up feeling worse. However, it can be therapeutic to get things off your chest and have a caring person to listen. Bottling things up isn't healthy, but neither is rehashing everything you think is wrong with your life or the world. I'd like you to experience sanctuary when you come for your sessions. I want you to feel safe talking to me, but it may be much more therapeutic to leave the world outside and just enjoy your time at Body Sanctuary. So, bottom line, you decide what you need from the session. I DO recommend though, that unless you're expecting a very important and urgent call, that you turn your cell phone to vibrate. Nothing brings you out of your during massage state of bliss like a ringing phone.
Do I need to come alone?
I do ask that when you come for your appointment, you don't bring friends or family members with you. This is your time, and you don't want to be distracted. Also, communication between therapist and client is important, and is not as easy with others
around. I ask that the waiting room be for clients only. If someone is dropping you off, there are lots of businesses in the area where they could go relax and have a cup of coffee or tea or go shopping while you’re in your session.
How often should I come in?
When you come in you and I will discuss your goals. I can then customize a treatment plan for you based on your goals, your current condition, and how you respond to treatment.
In general, you’ll get the best results by coming in more often at the beginning, because if the sessions are close enough to each other they actually have a cumulative benefit. Once you reach your goal, you may decide on different goals, or decide you need sessions less often to maintain the benefits, and for overall wellness.
If you’re coming in strictly for pampering, occasional sessions may be enough for you, but if you’re looking for pain relief or stress relief, regular sessions are generally recommended. Like exercise, if you only do it occasionally, you’ll notice only limited benefits. After an occasional, or your first couple of sessions, you may only feel better for a couple of days; but because of the cumulative benefits, as you come in more regularly, you'll notice you feel better longer. Regular sessions are a useful tool to teach you how to relax and hold less tension in your muscles.
In addition, massage therapy can improve range of motion, circulation, help lower high blood pressure, improve nerve conduction, increase feelings of self-worth, improve body image and increase your body awareness. Increased body awareness is one of the most important health benefits because as your body awareness grows, you begin to notice when things are out of balance before symptoms of disease, pain and dysfunction show up. Any amount of somatic therapy is beneficial, but if you can budget the time & money, weekly sessions are a very powerful way to improve your health and quality of life.
How do I pay?
We take Mastercard or Visa (credit or debit), or cash. If you prefer, if you request your appointment online, you can pay at the time via PayPal. Alternatively, if you choose you join the Glass Slipper Club, a monthly membership fee will be charged to your credit or debit card on the same day every month (you can cancel anytime after 3 months with 30 days notice), making it easy to budget, and meaning you never have to worry about payment when you come in.
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